England’s Top 10 Most Picturesque Counties Revealed

It’s a debate that’s raged on for years: which of England’s eighty-three counties is the prettiest?

Could it be Somerset with its treasured Quantocks? Dorset with its inspiring Durdle Door? Or Norfolk with its beloved Broads? To settle this once and for all, we asked one thousand Brits to tell us which English county they love the most.

Here’s what we found…

1. Cornwall voted most picturesque county in England

That’s right, one in five respondents voted Cornwall as England’s prettiest destination, and it’s hardly surprising, given the county’s evocative mix of coast and country. Cornwall is a firm favourite among many UK holidaymakers thanks to its wonderful beaches and rugged heathlands, not to mention its seemingly endless heritage.

You can find out more about England’s prettiest region by visiting our brilliant Cornwall Travel Guide.

2. Yorkshire took second place

Yorkshire was voted England’s second prettiest destination in the poll, with a respectable 18% of the vote. Despite failing to topple Cornwall from its picturesque pedestal, God’s Own County remains one of the UK’s most revered holiday destinations, and was dubbed Europe’s best destination at the World Travel Awards in 2013.

Find plenty to see and do in this beautiful region by taking a look through our Yorkshire Travel Guide.

3. Cumbria came in third

Coming in a close third was Cumbria, whose world-famous national park – the Lake District – will certainly have helped the county climb up the rankings. But the Lakes aren’t the only thing this northern county has to shout about; head to the coast, and you’ll find some of England’s most beautiful, secluded and windswept beaches, as well as a handful of charming towns and villages.

View our Lake District Travel Guide for more information about this fascinating region.

Which English counties completed the top 10? Find out below…

Use our carefully crafted Travel Guides for inspiration on how to experience these beautiful counties. Book your cottage today for an unforgettable break away.

*The Leadership Factor polled 1,019 British adults in December 2014 on behalf of Sykes Cottages.

Image credits: Darren Flinders – CC 2.0; Phil Long – CC BY 2.0; sagesolar – CC BY 2.0